Nate Smallwood | Tribune-Review
Carlynton’s Oleg Melnyk works for an escape from Thomas Jefferson’s Brendan Finnerty at the 2020 Allegheny County Tournament at Fox Chapel.
In his native Ukraine, where he was born and lived his first 10 years, Oleg Melnyk claims his first name is very common.
Now he’s trying to make a name for himself around the WPIAL and the state.
The Carlynton senior has risen in weight class as he has improved in his three years with the Cougars.
“He’s deceptively strong, explosive when he needs to be and is creative on the mat,” Carlynton wrestling coach Ed White said. “He knows how to work his way out of a scramble position into a position that’s favorable to him. Off the mat, he’s a great kid who’s self-motivated. He takes the initiative and doesn’t need anybody to drag him to do the work that needs done.”